National Sports Commission (NSC) Director General Bukola Olopade has played down concerns over the future of Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle notwithstanding prolonged contract extension discussion with the Nigeria Football federation.

Olopade insisted that the Malian tactician remains fully committed to Nigeria despite reports linking him with the Algeria national team.

Olopade expressed confidence that Chelle would remain in charge of the three-time African champions, stating that discussions over the coach’s improved contract had already been concluded and that only the formal documentation was outstanding.

According to him, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) is expected to complete the necessary paperwork soon, describing the contract as a renewal rather than a fresh agreement.

“It’s a renewed contract, which means it’s an existing one. We have agreed, so I am sure that the Nigeria Football Federation will conclude the documentation as soon as possible,” Olopade said.

He also dismissed speculation surrounding interest from Algeria and several North African clubs, saying he had personally spoken with Chelle and found the coach unconcerned by the transfer rumours.

“Eric is a gentleman, so all the stories about other countries looking for him do not hold water. I have sat with him and I know he is not bothered by all those rumours.”

Questions over Chelle’s future surfaced after reports claimed the 48-year-old had yet to sign the improved contract package offered jointly by the NSC and the NFF.

The speculation intensified amid claims that the Algeria Football Federation, along with a number of clubs in North Africa, had begun monitoring Chelle following his impressive start as Super Eagles coach.